Vanderbijlpark crash: Department releases names of latest victims

The Gauteng Department of Education has released the photo and the names of the latest two learners to die in the crash between a tipper lorry and a scholar transporter taxi outside Vanderbijlpark on Monday.

Sedibeng Ster reports the two learners, Thato Moetji and Sagwai Mathe, died in hospital in the early hours of yesterday, while the other 12 died on the scene.

The total number of deaths is 14 as confirmed by SAPS.

“As a province, and as a nation, we are deeply disheartened by their loss. Their memory will forever live in our hearts as a solemn and enduring reminder of the promise and hope they carried for their families, schools, and communities. May Your Souls Rest in Peace,” the department said.

The driver of the taxi, Ayanda Dludla (22), who was initially charged with culpable homicide, now faces 14 counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder, and three other charges of contravening the Traffic Act 93 of 1996.

He appeared in the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court yesterday, and the case was postponed to March 5 for further investigations.

He remains behind bars after abandoning bail.

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